Poached pheasants reported in area

The New Mexico Game and Fish Department is on the lookout for pheasant dumpers.

The department released an Operation Game Thief call Friday in regard to a pile of dead pheasants reported near the intersection of Brady Street and Martin Luther King Jr. Boulevard.

Pheasant season ended Dec. 10, according to department spokesman Dan Williams, and hunters are limited to three male pheasants per day.

Michelle Wilson, one of several Clovis residents who contacted authorities, estimated she saw 15 to 20 pheasants. Wilson said the bird dumping has happened in previous years at that location, and the birds haven’t been gutted.

“It’s the entire body of the bird,” said Wilson. “They’re just being killed and not being used. It’s not for sport or food. I don’t understand.”

Williams said anybody with information can report it to Operation Game Thief by calling (800) 432-4263. Callers may remain anonymous and be eligible for a reward.